The short version: afternoon tea is a tiered stand of finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and little cakes, served with pots of tea – and often a glass of Champagne. In London you can take it grandly in a historic hotel, on a vintage double-decker bus tour of the sights, or on a Thames cruise. Book ahead, dress smart-casual, and come hungry.
At a glance
| Type | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Hotel tea | The classic – elegant surroundings, full service; book well ahead |
| Bus tour tea | Tea on a vintage Routemaster past the landmarks (~90 min) |
| Thames cruise tea | Afternoon tea with river views of Westminster and the City |
| Champagne tea | Any of the above, upgraded with a glass of fizz |
What’s on the stand
The full spread is a three-tier stand: finger sandwiches on the bottom (cucumber, smoked salmon, egg-and-cress, coronation chicken), warm scones with clotted cream and jam in the middle, and cakes and pastries on top – all with a pot of loose-leaf tea (or a “Champagne tea” with a glass of fizz). On the great debate – jam first or cream first on the scone – Cornwall says jam, Devon says cream; in London, do both.
Which one to choose
For the classic experience, a grand hotel tea is unbeatable – but it’s formal and books up, so reserve ahead. For something more fun, especially with kids or first-timers, the afternoon tea bus tour serves the whole spread on a vintage double-decker as it loops past Big Ben, Westminster and the river – tea and sightseeing in one. A Thames cruise tea is the scenic middle ground. Compare options on our London afternoon tea page, or learn to bake the scones yourself in a cooking class.
Frequently asked questions
What time is afternoon tea?
Traditionally mid-afternoon, roughly 2-5pm – a bridge between lunch and a late dinner. Most venues run several sittings; book the one that suits your day.
What should I wear to afternoon tea in London?
Smart-casual is fine almost everywhere; some grand hotels ask for no sportswear or ripped jeans. Bus and cruise teas are relaxed.
Is afternoon tea worth it in London?
Yes – it’s one of the city’s signature experiences. Choose a hotel for the classic version, a bus tour for fun and sightseeing, or a cruise for the views.
Book afternoon tea
Compare hotel, bus and cruise teas on our London afternoon tea page, add a food tour, and plan from the UK hub.
